Configurable Modular Card for Flight Simulators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flight simulators require multiple dedicated cards for specific functionalities, making them inflexible and costly to maintain, as each card can only execute dedicated software and is not easily replaceable if faulty.
Innovation Solution
A configurable modular card system that can execute various simulation functionalities using a processor, configurable input/output units, and power supplies, allowing for reconfiguration of cards to replace faulty ones and adapt to different simulation needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple dedicated cards are used for specific functionalities, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal card architecture where a single card can perform multiple simulation functionalities through configurable software modules. The card includes a processor that can execute different simulation codes, a configurable I/O unit that can be programmed for various data exchange patterns, and a power supply that can be configured for different power requirements. This multi-functionality reduces the number of physical cards needed while maintaining system reliability through software-based functionality assignment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated cards are used for specific functionalities, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfigurability where the card's functionality can be changed during operation through software configuration. The configurable I/O unit can be dynamically programmed to exchange data with different simulation components, and the processor can be instructed to execute different simulation codes. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to respond to changing simulation requirements without physical reconfiguration, simplifying operation while maintaining versatility.
3Reliability
If multiple dedicated cards are used for specific functionalities, then reliability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple dedicated card functionalities into a single universal card platform. By combining the processor, configurable I/O unit, power supply, and simulation code execution capabilities into one integrated card design, the system reduces the total number of components required. This consolidation lowers manufacturing costs, reduces inventory requirements, and simplifies maintenance while maintaining the reliability needed for simulation operations through robust software-based functionality assignment.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a configurable modular card. The card comprises a board, at least one processor and at least one memory on the board, a configurable input/output unit comprising a plurality of configurable inputs and outputs, a bus for providing electronic data exchange there between, and a power supply comprising a plurality of configurable power supply circuits. The configurable input/output unit has a predefined output for sending a broadcast message and a predefined input for receiving a broadcast response message. The processor configures the plurality of inputs and outputs of the configurable input/output unit based on the broadcast response message. The processor configures the plurality of power circuits of the power supply based on the broadcast response message. The processor generates testing signals to the plurality of inputs and outputs of the configurable input/output unit and to the plurality of power circuits of the power supply.